Mount Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, standing at 4566 meters above sea level inside Arusha National Park. Meru has one route to the top and can also be attempted for 3 days.
Most alpines use Meru for acclimatization before the Kilimanjaro climb. Unlike Kilimanjaro when you are climbing Mount Meru, you have to be escorted by an armed ranger(s). You will enjoy the walking safari as you pass the groups of African buffaloes, zebras, and black and white Colobus monkeys.
Why Climb Mount Meru?
- Perfect acclimatization trek before Kilimanjaro
- Incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro at sunrise
- Rich wildlife encounters inside Arusha National Park
- Less crowded, more authentic trekking experience
Life on Safari
- Distance: 10 km
- Hiking Time: ~6 hours
- Habitat: Grassland & Rainforest
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to Arusha National Park, passing through lush landscapes and wildlife-rich areas. Along the way, you may spot giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes before reaching Momella Gate.
After completing park formalities, begin your trek accompanied by an armed ranger. The trail starts through open grassland and gradually enters dense rainforest. En route, stop at the beautiful Maio Falls for a picnic and continue through the iconic Fig Tree Arch.
Arrive at Miriakamba Hut in the afternoon, where you can relax with tea and snacks as you enjoy the peaceful forest surroundings.
Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut (Budget Mountain Hut)
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Drinks: Drinking water provided
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: ~5 hours
- Habitat: Moorland & Heath
After breakfast, continue your ascent along a steep trail lined with wooden steps. As you gain altitude, the air becomes cooler and the vegetation gradually changes.
After about 2 hours, reach Mgongo wa Tembo (Elephant Back) at 3,200m—a scenic viewpoint ideal for a short rest. From here, the landscape transitions into moorland and heath.
Arrive at Saddle Hut around midday for lunch and rest. You may take an optional acclimatization hike toward Little Meru before returning to camp. Prepare for an early night, as your summit attempt begins after midnight.
Accommodation: Saddle Hut (Budget Mountain Hut)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drinks: Drinking water provided
- Distance: 6 km ascent / 19 km descent
- Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
- Habitat: Heath, Alpine & Rainforest
Wake up around midnight and begin your summit push under the stars. Using headlamps, follow the narrow ridge through bushland toward Rhino Point (3,821m) and Cobra Point—steep and exposed sections requiring careful footing.
After 4–5 hours, reach Socialist Peak (4,565m) just in time for sunrise. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Meru’s dramatic crater, and the ash cone below.
Descend back to Saddle Hut for a short rest and refreshments before continuing down to Miriakamba Hut for your overnight stay.
Accommodation: Miriakamba Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drinks: Drinking water provided
- Hiking Time: ~4–6 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest & Grassland
After breakfast, begin your final descent through lush forest back to Momella Gate. Early morning is a great time to spot wildlife as animals are more active.
Upon arrival at the gate, your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Arusha.
Accommodation: None (End of Trek)
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Drinks: Drinking water provided
All prices are per person, valid year-round. Group discounts apply — the more travellers, the lower your per-person cost. Children under 15 receive a special rate.
- All Park entrances & taxes
- All Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner),
- soft drinks & water (bottled water 3litres or more a day)
- A professional guide
- All activities
- All transportation
- Tips for guides, driver & cook
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania Visa fees
- Porterage
- Rescue fee
- Climbing gear
"Our guide Emmanuel was incredible — he spotted a leopard and two lion cubs that three other vehicles completely missed. The most magical experience of our lives."
"The private setup meant we could spend 45 minutes with a cheetah and cubs without feeling rushed. The lodges were far beyond what we expected."
"As first-time safari travelers, we were nervous. From the moment we arrived, Serengeti African Tours took care of everything. The Ngorongoro Crater literally took our breath away."
"Booked through SafariBookings and couldn't be happier. Every detail was handled perfectly. Guide Abouh is extraordinary — his knowledge of wildlife is encyclopaedic."
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
